On December 21, the Sun enters Capricorn and we celebrate the Winter Solstice.I love this time of year. The beginning of the coldest periodof the four seasons. The first snow of winter has arrived.The fields are covered in blanket of white and the tree topglisten. From the north gale winds blow and the frigid air nips at my nose.

Bundled in winterize garments from head to toe, I move from one place to another in an unhurried gait.At night, the strings of bright lights, outlining windows androofs twinkle like the stars above.

A wreath adorn most doors.

Inside the the four walls hang traditional decorations past fromone generation to the next. Yule cards come and go with a merry wish for lots of happiness. The perfect gifts-a little something to say I care wrapped in shiny paper, ribbon, andbows lay beneath the lit tree, waiting to delight.

Surprise visits from family and friends brings spontaneousentertaining. The birth of special memories to be cherishedforever. Food and drink served with a smile, and tasty treatsso delicious ar devoured.

Compassion and mercy are the standard with looniesdropped here and toonies dropped there in the redkettles. Good will and joy are the norm, while making magical memories.

In the Northern Hemisphere the Winter Solstice aroundDecember 21, marks the beginning of winter and occurswhen the North Pole is tilted away from the sun.

The word Solstice literally means "standing still." At theWinter Solstice the sun rises, stands still, for a brief moment,then quickly dwindles to disappear beneath the horizon.The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and the longestnight of the year.

Yule, one of the four lesser Sabbats, takes place each yeararound December 25.

*Legend of Santa Claus-Santa is the Holly King, the sleigh is the Solar Chariot, the eight Sabbats and the horns representthe Horn God, the North Pole symbolizes the Land of the Shadows and the dying solar year, and the gifts meant bothto welcome the Oak King as the sun reborn and as a reminderof the gift of the Holly King who must depart for the Oak Kingto rule.

This is a great time to reflect upon the past and make plans for your future as the Sun illumines a pathway toward the achievement of your goals. *taken from pg.191-Yule Sabbat-Green Witchcraft SeriesAuthor Ann Moura http://annmoursgarden.com

Wiccans and Pagans have an animal companion that they consider their familiar. A familiar is part of the family. A familiar is often defined as an animal with whom we have a magical connection. If an animal has appeared in your life unexpectedly -- such as a stray cat that appears regularly, for instance -- it's possible that the animal may have been drawn to you magickally!